Update on Project Hopeless:
the entire front suspension was recently removed, so I can step up to a Gen 2 suspension. I found out the hard way that although you can replace the LCA bushings & balljoints, the UCA's are throwaways. This complicated plans to sell off what would have been a complete Gen 1 suspension, with new OEM Fox’s, new Geiser coils, new LCA's, tie rods, axles, and shims. Unfortunately, since the Gen 2 replacement coil buckets have yet to arrive I was reluctant to sell the Gen 1 parts, because in 2023 you can't rely on much. Meanwhile, an unexpected $8500 solar panel repair happened. But, as soon as I receive the new coil buckets & get them on, I can sell off the Gen 1 parts, plus some other Gen 2 parts I've acquired, and I'll be able to finally put everything back together and have a reliable, paid for, fun and ba dass daily driver. Long term goal: within a year I'll be looking to step up the stock rear suspension to a 3-link through Evil Offroad, looking for around 20" travel while leaving the gas tank in place.